Why Bamboo Biking in Intramuros?
Intramuros, meaning "within walls," is a 0.67-square-kilometer fortress that has stood at the heart of Manila for over 400 years. This historic walled city survived earthquakes, wars, and urban development to remain one of the Philippines' most important cultural heritage sites. While you could walk these narrow cobblestone streets on foot, bamboo bikes offer a unique advantage: they let you cover more ground, move at a comfortable pace, and experience the area like a local explorer.
Bambike Ecotours' bamboo bikes are a perfect fit for Intramuros. These lightweight, sustainable bicycles handle the narrow streets and uneven cobblestones with ease. They're designed for comfort, with ergonomic seating, and they produce zero emissions--making them ideal for exploring a historic site where preservation and sustainability matter.
The bamboo bikes make it possible to see Intramuros at a human pace, not rushing, not exhausting yourself walking, but truly absorbing the history and culture as we pass through these ancient streets.
Tour Details & Experiences
Bambike Ecotours offers several tour options to suit different interests and schedules. The standard experience is a guided 90-minute tour for small intimate groups (typically 5-10 people, maximum 15). For those seeking a more romantic experience, sunset tours (2 hours) are also available, complete with complimentary drinks.
Gallery: The Bamboo Biking Experience
Historic Landmarks You'll Visit
The bamboo bike tour covers 8-10 major historic sites within Intramuros. Your guide will stop at each location, providing historical context and answering questions. Here's what you can typically expect to see:
Start at Plaza San Luis Complex
Meet at Bambike Ecotours headquarters in Plaza San Luis, receive your bamboo bike and safety briefing, and meet your guide
San Agustin Church
Visit the oldest stone church in the Philippines (completed 1607), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that survived the 1863 earthquake and WWII bombing
Puerta Real Gardens
Explore restored Spanish colonial gardens offering views of the city walls and Pasig River
Plaza España
Visit this historic plaza surrounded by colonial architecture and Spanish heritage structures
Fort Santiago
Tour the Spanish citadel built in the 16th century at the northern tip of Intramuros, a significant military and cultural landmark
Manila Cathedral
See this neo-Romanesque basilica featuring stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architectural details
Japanese Cannon & Historical Sites
Learn about WWII history and see war-related artifacts preserved within Intramuros
Return to Plaza San Luis
Complete your tour at the starting point, receive complimentary ice cream and cold towels
What's Included in the Tour
Bambike Ecotours includes several amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
✓ Bamboo bike rental for the entire tour ✓ Expert guide providing historical context and cultural insights ✓ Free water refills throughout the tour ✓ Complimentary sunscreen to protect from UV rays ✓ Cold towels to cool down after riding ✓ Complimentary ice cream upon tour completion ✓ Helmet and safety gear (provided) ✓ Route planning that avoids heavy traffic and emphasizes historic sites
Booking Information & Practical Details
Location: Plaza San Luis Complex, Real Street corner General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila (right across from San Agustin Church)
Phone: +63 9777-815-322
Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily (tours run on a scheduled basis; call to confirm times)
Booking: You can book directly through Bambike Ecotours by phone, or through tour platforms like Viator, GetYourGuide, Klook, and Civitatis. Walk-ins are welcome depending on guide availability.
What to Wear: Comfortable clothing you don't mind getting slightly dusty. Wear closed-toe shoes (sneakers recommended) for better grip on the pedals. Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Physical Requirements: The tour is suitable for most fitness levels. While it involves cycling, the pace is leisurely and guides frequently stop at historic sites. The terrain is mostly paved streets with some cobblestones. If you have mobility concerns, discuss them with the guide when booking.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning tours (9 AM) offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Sunset tours (available seasonally) provide romantic golden hour lighting perfect for photography. Avoid midday heat (11 AM-3 PM) during summer months.
Getting There: Intramuros is easily accessible from anywhere in Metro Manila. From Makati, take Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) or drive via Vito Cruz. From BGC, head west to Fort Bonifacio then north. Grab/Uber ride-sharing is convenient for door-to-door service. Street parking is available but limited; arriving early is advisable.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Tourism?
Bambike Ecotours represents a growing movement toward sustainable tourism in the Philippines. By choosing bamboo bikes instead of motorized tours or driving yourself, you're supporting local environmental initiatives and reducing your carbon footprint. The bamboo used in these bikes is a rapidly renewable resource--it grows much faster than trees and sequesters carbon as it grows.
Furthermore, Bambike is a Filipino social enterprise that supports local communities and craftspeople. When you book a tour, you're directly supporting sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation efforts.
Travel Tips for Intramuros
Extend Your Visit: After your bike tour, consider lingering in Intramuros to explore on foot. Visit the San Agustin Museum, take photos at scenic spots, or grab lunch at one of the area's restaurants.
Photography: Intramuros is incredibly photogenic. Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture the colonial architecture. Early morning and sunset light is particularly beautiful for photography.
Nearby Attractions: After your tour, explore Rizal Park (just south of Intramuros), the National Museum Complex, or head to nearby neighborhoods like Binondo (Chinatown) for more cultural experiences.
Weather Considerations: The Philippines experiences tropical weather. Tours can run rain or shine, but very heavy rain may result in rescheduling. Check the weather forecast and bring a light rain jacket if needed.
